Two of Asia’s superstars, Wu Chun and Calvin Chen, arrived over the weekend to promote their afternoon show “Romantic Princess” which is now approaching its final two weeks on ABS-CBN. As expected, the two Taiwanese heartthrobs were given a warm welcome by their Pinoy fans.

After a quick lunch at their hotel, the two super charming stars proceeded immediately to ABS-CBN’s Studio 8 for their first ever TV appearance and interview in “Entertainment Live.”

And then, after a press conference at 9501, Wu Chun and Calvin Chen captivated even more their screaming Pinoy fans as they rendered a special number in “Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2’s” live Expulsion Night last Saturday.

Last Sunday, the two also appeared on “ASAP 08” and “The Buzz” where they sang a song for their Filipino fans.

The promotional tour of the Taiwanese superstars is part of ABS-CBN’s ongoing 55th year celebration. In the past, the Kapamilya Network also brought over other Asian superstars like Lee Dong Wook of “My Girl;” Eugene of “Save the Last Dance For Me” and “Wonderful Life,” and F4’s Jerry Yan and Vic Zhou together with “Meteor Garden” leading lady Barbie Zhu.

Chun, who starred in the phenomenal and original “Hana Kimi,” and Calvin are both members of the singing sensation Fahrenheit.

At their press conference, the two actors impressed the entertainment press with their fluency in the English language. Actually, both are multi-linguists. Wu Chun who is Goh Kiat Chun in real life, speaks three Chinese dialects: Mandarin, Cantonese and Hokkien, aside from English and Malay, having been born in Brunei of Chinese descent.

Chun was discovered when he visited Taiwan and was asked to play the main character in the Taiwanese drama “Tokyo Juliet,” which catapulted him to fame. He later joined the musical group Fahrenheit. Before he joined show business, he was a model and fitness instructor. He graduated from RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia with a degree in Business Administration, after which he established his own gym called Fitness Zone Centre in Brunei.In 2006, Chun starred in “Hana Kimi,” a toprating drama series which had him soaring in popularity worldwide.

Calvin Chen, on the other hand, is Chen Yi Ru and he and his family have been to the Philippines a few times. Born in Taiwan on Nov. 10, 1080, Chen pursued his college education in Canada. He finished college at Simon Fraser University and got his master’s degree in Economics at the University of Victoria.

While in Canada, Calvin joined the Sunshine Boyz competition and won first place with a free plane ticket to Taiwan and a contract with a music company, as well as a role in a drama series. That started his showbiz career.

Calvin, who speaks Mandarin, English, Hokkien and could also converse in Cantonese, is studying Public Finance at the National Chengchi University. Watch these Asian heartthrobs in “Romantic Princess” which they say is not only about love but also about friendship.

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‘REtroSPECT Live!’ The Rainy Days Concert series

This month, catch the Aliw Awards’ Best Group Performer in Hotels, Bars and Music Lounges in “REtroSPECT Live!” The Rainy Days Concert series on July 16, at The Library Malate, July 18 at Bagaberde Pasig, July 19 at Sitcom Las Piñas City, July 25 at “The Park” @ Libis Center Mandaluyong City, July 26 at San Miguel Pub Alabang Town Center and July 31 at Off The Grill, Timog Ave., QC. Enjoy a musical flight which only REtroSPECT can bring you to higher altitude.

REtroSPECT members are J. Martin, Gold Castro and Ogie Ramos with their backing musician called “The Rhythm” – Anton Castro on lead guitar, Gary Lahoy on drums, Larry Jimenez on bass guitar, Mike Casanova on keyboards, Rex G on sax and flute and Krister Jann Castro on percussion.

“REtroSPECT Live” The Rainy Days Concert Series” is produced by Skechers, Mossimo, Gold’s Gym, Skechers Time, Cali Gear and Something Else by Skechers, and Calliope Italia. Media partners: 103.5 MAX FM, 101.1 Yes FM and 106.7 Dream FM, Phil. Star and Manila Bulletin.

For inquiries, log on to www.retrospect.ph/www.restrospectdecade.multiply.com.

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US Pacific Fleet Band
at SM City Manila

HE Ambassador Kristie Kenney of the USA was the special guest during the recent performance of the US Pacific Fleet Big Band at SM City Manila. The US Embassy in Manila organized the event just in time for the Fourth of July celebrations, giving mallgoers a sample of big band music.

Under the direction of Lieutenant Bruce McDonald, the band is an eighteen member jazz ensemble performing many diverse styles within the jazz genre. Considered one of Hawaii’s most respected jazz ensembles, the band’s repertoire ranged from timeless classics of big band swing by Count Basie and Duke Ellington to exciting contemporary jazz literature.

These included soul music from the 60s like “Midnight Hour,” Knock on Wood,” “Hold On,” “When a Man Loves a Women” and “Soul Man;: as well as a Temptations Medley including “Get Ready,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “The Way You Do the Things You Do,” and “My Girl.” The band also performed well loved hits like “New York, New York,” “I Feel Good,” “It’s Your Thing,” and “Take It Easy;” as well as a 70’s Medley with “Play Funky Music,” “That’s the Way I like It;” “Jungle Boogie,” and “Every Breath You Take.” This blast from the past was complemented by contemporary hits like “Smooth.”

The Pacific Fleet Big Band is one of the ensembles of the US Pacific Fleet Band. Other ensembles include the traditional military Ceremonial Band, which performs march music or military ceremonies and patriotic events; the Harbor Brass, a brass quintet whose repertoire ranges from Bach to Broadway and martial music; and Tradewinds, a traditional woodwind chamber ensemble that lends a touch of class to receptions and public concerts. The Pacific Fleet Band ensembles also include other genres through the Pacific Fleet Rock Band, which performs high energy rock, pop, disco, and light jazz numbers; and the Dixie Express, a versatile group that performs music from the golden age of jazz.

The Pacific Fleet Band, which is under the Commander of the US Pacific Fleet, is dedicated to providing top qualty musical support for official ceremonies and functions of the Pacific Fleet. Through their performances, they inspire patriotism, elevate the spirit de corps, and foster pride in the naval service.

Carrying on the proud tradition of navy music, the Pacific Fleet Band continues to be an outstanding representative of pride and professionalism for the US Navy and the Pacific Fleet.

The performance of the United States Pacific Fleet Big Band is one of the many exciting events at SM City Manila.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, July 15, go to Julius Babao, Kakai Brosas, Mrs. Tessie M. Gozon, Robina Gokongwei-pe, Tony Ocampo of Ivory and Vicor Records; Norma Virtucio, Amelia Miranda, Mrs. Amy Santos, Don Christian, Angelene Aguilar, Jon-Jon B. Nuesca, Evelyn Diga, Pol Suarez, Edna Brica and Clarence Lovely B. Clariño...Happy wedding anniversary to President & Mrs. Joseph Estrada...